Observance of "Maine Week of Heroes"

INFORMATIONAL NO: 19
POLICY NO: IMD

TO: Superintendents of Schools, Curriculum Leaders and School Principals
FROM: Susan A. Gendron, Commissioner of Education
DATE: September 8, 2009
RE: Observance of Maine Week of Heroes

This letter serves as a reminder that this year, Maine Week of Heroes should be observed from Sunday, September 7 through Saturday, September 13, 2009. This is a time for us all to recognize the heroic Mainers that live and work in our communities and abroad.

Recognition of heroism, and especially recognition of the heroic acts of Mainers, is a wonderful way for students to begin the school year. It emphasizes the importance of active citizenship and lets us think of how we as individuals may contribute even in small ways to our fellow citizens, our communities, our State, and our Nation.
Below you will find the State statute, 1 MRSA §146 Maine Week of Heroes for your reference.

§146. Maine Week of Heroes
Each political subdivision and school administrative unit is encouraged to observe a Maine Week of Heroes during the week, commencing on a Sunday and ending on the next following Saturday, within which September 11th occurs. The observance may include public proclamations, appropriate ceremonies and the introduction of curricula in school systems recognizing the efforts of heroic people in Maine communities, such as active duty military personnel, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, law enforcement officers, members of the National Guard, members of the United States Coast Guard, United States military veterans and all other heroes who have given their courageous service without regard for their own lives or personal safety to benefit the people of this great land and to serve the needs of the citizens of the State.

Schools and classrooms approach Maine Week of Heroes in a variety of different ways. Many teachers choose to explore the concept of a hero in historical or modern context (or both). Others pursue the overarching question,What makes a person heroic? It is a local decision as to how you choose to participate in this important Maine observance.

One new resource that educators find helpful is The Spirit of Volunteerism: 9/11 and Beyond which begins with an eight minute film that highlights the outpouring of volunteerism in the aftermath of September 11, 2001. The film and materials are free and available at: http://www.national911memorial.org/site/PageServer?pagename=volunteerismvideo

If you have additional questions or would like to suggest resources, please contact Jana Boody, Social Studies Specialist at jana.boody@maine.gov or phone (207) 624-6828.